Sivanadane Mandjiny

Sivanadane Mandjiny serves as Professor and Director of the Biotechnology Research and Training Center at COMTECH, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, operating from the Oxendine Science Building. His dual role integrates academic leadership with hands-on biomanufacturing workforce development.

Research centers on industrial bioprocessing optimization, particularly using green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a model system. His work spans upstream processing (cell line identification, fermentation) and downstream processing (centrifugation, filtration, chromatography), with specialized focus on ion exchange chromatography. Key investigations compare protein binding capacities of nylon/PVA membranes versus Sepharose/silica gel beads to generate industry-applicable adsorption data.

Students receive intensive training in laboratory techniques and Cytiva Chromatographic systems, preparing them for immediate industry contribution. The program successfully trains career-changers with no prior biomanufacturing background, demonstrating strong industry alignment. The Biotechnology Research and Training Center functions as both research hub and workforce pipeline, directly addressing pharmaceutical sector skill requirements through practical, industry-tested protocols.